The operator theory contributes in various ways to ecology. Ecology is the study of ecosystems. An ecosystem is viewed here as a system in which at least one organism interacts with its environment. The interactions between organisms and their biotic and abiotic environment cause 'ecoystem dynamics'.

1. Based on a definition of what is a single organism, the operator theory assists in analysing 'cooperations' between organisms (e.g. symbioses, portugese man of war),

2. The operator theory indicates that organisms show distinct levels of structural complexity (from bacteria to neural network organisms, and beyond). With each level of structural complexity, the new closure type that is involved, adds a whole new kind of interactive properties to the ecosystem.

3. The operator theory offers a fundamental approach for organising hierarchy in ecosystem dynamics in a comprehensive way (the DICE approach).